Charting the global economy: Maritime attacks drive up costs

(Bloomberg) — Shipping costs are rising as hundreds of container ships that typically transit the key maritime artery of the Red Sea and Suez Canal are rerouting after a multitude of attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants. Most Read from Bloomberg Combined with disruptions at a drought-stricken Panama Canal in the Western Hemisphere, the rise in merchant shipping rates poses headwinds for central bankers in their inflation fight. Meantime, the economy in Vietnam exceeded expectations this year and is poised for better results in 2024. For economies in many African nations next year, credible elections and improved governance are key. Here…